Tips to prevent Breast Cancer on a Vegan Diet and Lifestyle

Recently, I came across an interesting Daily Mail article that discussed some recent developments in breast cancer research, so I thought I’d share some of its contents in honor of Breast Cancer Month!

DR FUNK’S TOP 10 TIPS TO PREVENT BREAST CANCER

1. Eat cruciferous vegetables every day

Consuming cauliflower, broccoli, kale, cabbage and brussels sprouts have powerful anti-cancer preventing properties, according to Dr Funk. This is because of their glucosinolate content, which when broken or chewed, an enzyme called myrosinase converts glucosinolates to isothiocyanates – which have anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects.

2. Consume antioxidant-rich berries

Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are all rich in antioxidants.

‘These things are free-radical scavengers so, believe it or not, berries make cancer cells commit suicide,’ said Dr Funk. ‘I blend a cup a day into a shake.’

3. Add turmeric to meals or smoothies

The main active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which laboratory studies have shown does have anticancer effects on cancer cells.

Dr Funk says it is a breast health ‘superfood’ and can be easily consumed by adding to a smoothie.

4. Eat Indian Gooseberry

Indian Gooseberry is renowned for its anti-cancer fighting properties (stock photo)

Often sold as ‘AMLA powder,’ Indian Gooseberry has the highest concentration of antioxidants on earth. It also improves metabolic activity, assists with calcium absorption and assists with improving eyesight.

5. Go mad for mushrooms

Button mushrooms are a great source of nutrients when it comes to breast cancer prevention. There is no evidence that any type of mushroom or mushroom extract can prevent or cure cancer, however, button mushrooms contain all the essential amino acids and are a good source of vitamins.

6. Add more soya to your diet

For years, doctors, including herself admitted Dr Funk, told breast cancer patients to avoid soya. However, since 2009, newer studies have shown benefits of soya products, including tempeh, tofu, edamame and soy milk.

7. Use regular bar soaps

The doctor recommends using old-fashioned bar soap instead of antibacterial soap can lessen the risk of toxins you are exposed to.

8. Buy organic fruit

Dr Funk recommends eating organic produce as often as you can. She said this is especially important with fruit or vegetables you consume with the skin on as it may have absorbed toxins.

9. Dust and vacuum your home regularly

Dusting and vacuuming is a great way to lessen the number of toxins in the air, according to Funk.

10. Fill your home with household plants

Many house plants naturally absorb toxins, Funk said.

More information on Preventing Breast Cancer according to “By Any Greens Necessary”: